Deep in Lake Victoria, the islands of Koome Sub-county in Mukono District are home to unique indigenous forests, rare tree species and communities whose lives have long depended on the natural environment.
But these forests are disappearing.
Declining fish stocks, illegal fishing, charcoal production, timber harvesting, firewood collection, agricultural expansion and settlement are putting unprecedented pressure on Koome’s natural heritage. Rare and threatened indigenous trees—including African Mahogany, Prunus africana, Afzelia africana, Guarea cedrata and Uvariodendron magnificum—are among the species at risk.
In this documentary, we travel across the Koome Islands to explore the causes and consequences of deforestation and meet the communities working to reverse the damage.
Through giving out indigenous tree species to farmers, agroforestry, restoration of degraded land and the establishment of a one-hectare field seed bank, Hope for Nature is working with farmers, youth, women’s groups, schools, local leaders and other stakeholders to restore threatened tree species and build more sustainable livelihoods.
Meet farmers like Geoffrey Sserwadda, who is restoring land previously cleared for charcoal production and rice cultivation, and discover how communities are becoming stewards of their own forests.
From biodiversity conservation and climate resilience to soil and water protection, beekeeping and future eco-tourism opportunities, the restoration of Koome’s forests offers hope for both people and nature.
Koome’s forests are more than trees—they are life, livelihood and a legacy for future generations.
Watch the full documentary and discover why the future of the Koome Islands depends on growing one indigenous tree at a time.
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